Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh – Diksha Gupta, a talented young artist from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, has etched her name into the Guinness Book of World Records with a remarkable 9-foot-tall mehndi (henna) painting of Tirupati Balaji. This extraordinary accomplishment has not only brought immense pride to her family but also showcased the artistic prowess of Jabalpur on a global stage.
A Journey of Dedication and Artistry
Mehndi, traditionally used for adorning hands and feet, became Diksha’s unique canvas. Her journey to this prestigious record is as captivating as her artwork. Diksha, already a record-holder in the India Book of Records and the Limca Book of Records, embarked on this monumental project with unwavering dedication. The creation took three months of relentless effort, working 5 to 6 hours daily and utilizing 2 kilograms of mehndi. She began her work on June 20, 2022, and completed the intricate painting by September 16, 2022.
Her attention to detail is nothing short of exceptional. Recognized by the India Book of Records on January 27 and the Limca Book of Records on April 7, Diksha reapplied to the Guinness World Records on August 5, 2023, and achieved her goal on June 15.
Family Support and Early Beginnings
Diksha’s journey was supported by her close-knit joint family of 20 members. Her father, Sanjay Gupta, runs a cosmetics business, while her mother is a homemaker. It was at the age of 12 that Diksha began exploring mehndi art, a passion that has flourished with the unwavering support of her family.
Balancing Passion and Professional Life
Despite her professional commitments, Diksha has managed to balance her passion for mehndi art, creating numerous religious and spiritual paintings. Her portfolio includes depictions of Ram Darbar, Goddess Durga, Shiva-Parvati, Radha-Krishna, Buddha, and a poignant scene of Ram, Lakshman, and Sita in Kevat’s boat, which was presented to Jaya Kishori.
Creativity During the COVID-19 Lockdown
The COVID-19 lockdown provided Diksha with ample time to delve deeper into her art. This period of isolation became a fertile ground for her creativity, leading to the creation of new designs and a deeper expression of her devotion through mehndi art. One of her notable works from this period is a painting of Subhas Chandra Bose displayed in Jabalpur’s Central Jail. Listening to devotional songs, Diksha visualizes and creates intricate designs, each reflecting her deep feelings and devotion.
A Bright Future Ahead
Diksha Gupta’s entry into the Guinness Book of World Records is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of Jabalpur. Her journey from a 12-year-old enthusiast to a world-record holder is inspiring and paves the way for many young artists to pursue their passions with dedication and support from their families.
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